This month we talked to several women about their hair journey and how their hair makes them feel. Keep reading as the lovely Chontel J. Parker, Ph.D. shares her hair story with us.

DailyVenusDiva.com: How do you wear your hair?

Chontel J. Parker, Ph.D.:I have Sisterlocks. On a daily basis, my hair is usually pulled up in a ponytail with the right side hanging. It’s my go to style. I’ve also added blue and green highlights to the front for fun. I use pipe cleaners to roll them occasionally for curls and added flair. I usually revert to some derivative of my go to, even when I get it styled by my loctician.

How long have you been wearing your hair this way and what made you start wearing it this way?

My hair has been locked for about 3 1/2 years. However, I’ve been natural for about 15 years. Deciding on locs was just a natural decision for me. I opted for sisterlocks over traditional locs because I liked the size and versatility they offer. As far as my go to style, my go to style with my loose natural was basically the same as my current style, just not as fabulous. ?

The color decision of blue and green are symbolic to me, and serve as a reminder of my sense of individuality, which we sometimes lose in this cookie cutter/domineering world. It was also a sense of much needed “rebellion” lol.

What type of relationship do you have with hair?

I love my hair! I never really went through the love-hate phase with my locs. They are healthy, aesthetically versatile, low maintenance, and cute. I can work out, get rained on, be in need of a re-tightening, and even go to sleep and still have a great hair day.

How do people react to your hair choices?

I’m sure everyone has an opinion of them, negative or positive, but I get lots of compliments and questions. People are naturally curious and they want to know what they are and of its all my hair. I’ve had people to tell me that they don’t like locs, but they love my hair. My blue and green had to grow on some people, but those who know me know how free spirited I am and how that small pop of color meant a lot to me.

What’s your daily hair routine?

I literally wake up, shake, and go. I add It’s a 10 in leave in conditioner, Jamaican Black Castor oil, and oil sheen every few days. I wash it weekly or as needed, based on my level of activity and how much I sweat.

Who is your hair inspiration?

There are lots of bloggers with traditional locs and sisterlocks who inspire me (e.g., Joy Marilie and Huntress Locs). Funny enough, Ledisi’s updos are incredibly inspirational. We have different locs, but I can’t wait to imitate some of her styles.

What are 3 products that you use on your hair?

Save the Edges Jamaican Black castor oil, mixed with a scented oil, It’s a 10-minute leave in conditioner, and a Pink Oil Moisturizer mist for a little shine. Sisterlocks do not require many products.

How does your hair make you feel?

My hair makes me feel like the strong, quirky, confident, unapologetically BAD woman that I am. I love the way they move when I jump. I love the length and fullness that have exceeded anything I experienced with permed hair. I love the pop of color and how it’s just enough to make a point, but subtle enough to be professional. The blue and green reminds me of a beautiful male peacocks plumage. It reminds me daily of my sense of individuality and purpose. I don’t have any complaints. #nobadhairdays